Why has Bush not taken advantage of the retorical possibilities derived from invoking Manifest Destiny in Iraq

Question

This would be a compelling argument to supplement our nationalistic drive to spread freedom and democracy.

Answer 1

Well, the public motive is the spreading of american freedom and democracy. These buzzwords stimulate support, and can be effectively used to stifle dissent.

The actual motive for the Iraq war is to secure assets for America's future, of course. Read the "Project for a New American Century." The details are fairly comprehensive, and this neocon think tank has enjoyed seven years of uninterrupted pursuit of its goals.

Answer 2

Manifest Destiny has been recognized as an error, although the PNAC group is half-way there.